Analysis
This is massive match for both teams with Queensland needing to win to keep the top two within reach while Sydney's slim hopes of finals action will disappear without maximum points in this match.

Queensland has played the other top four teams away in the past three games and emerged with a creditable four points from those three encounters. The stirring 4-3 win over Central Coast last week, highlighted by Tahj Minniecon's brilliant performance, was followed up with a 0-0 draw against Adelaide.

Queensland had by far the better of that game against the ladder leaders with Sergio Van Dijk and Michael Zullo both unlucky not to score in the stalemate. While the Roar will be relieved to be back home again, the toll of three big games on the road in the space of 12 days may become evident in this match.

With that in mind, Frank Farina has rung the changes bringing back Charlie Miller, Danny Tiatto, Liam Reddy and Josh McLoughan from injury. Tim Smits is also included, while Luke DeVere missing through injury and Matt Ham completes his spell as back-up keeper.

Queensland's home record was abysmal earlier in the season, including a run of four consecutive home losses, but it turned that around with three recent home wins albeit against Perth, Newcastle and Wellington.

The two matches between these teams this season have resulted in 1-1 draws making the head to head ledger which features seven draws from 13 matches, look a little lop-sided.

Sydney's hopes of the post-season were kept alive thanks to Kofi Danning's debut Hyundai A-League goal against Wellington in match which turned when Troy Hearfield was sent off. It broke a four-match losing streak for Sydney.

However, few of the many questions surrounding Sydney were answered in that match and John Kosmina has decided to include Adam Casey and Matthew Jurman with Adam Casey left out. John Aloisi, Bobby Petta and Mitch Prentice are a week away.